The idea of self-determination often evokes images of empowerment and autonomy, yet for many Indigenous communities in Canada, it remains a complex paradox. My journey through the Mohawk territory of Akwesasne during the 2013 “Nation to Nation Road Bike Tour” highlighted both the aspirations and challenges faced by this community as they navigate the legacies of colonialism while striving for self-governance.
The tour, co-organized by the Otesha Project and Kairos Canada, aimed to foster understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. As I engaged with members of the Mohawk community, the narratives shared were as enlightening as they were sobering. The elders emphasized that the gathering of diverse youth was not merely an exercise in reconciliation but a fulfilment of a prophecy: a vision where people of all colours unite as part of the same ‘stalk,’ transcending the boundaries of race and nationality.
Yet the reality on the ground tells a different story. Akwesasne is not just a geographical space but a microcosm of the struggles inherent in the quest for self-determination. Divisions exist not only between the community and the Canadian state but also within the community itself. The interactions I observed revealed a palpable tension between status and non-status members, a reflection of the broader political and social fragmentation that colonial histories have engendered.
The Mohawk community’s relative material success, attributed to proactive efforts in tobacco trading and self-advocacy, stands in stark contrast to the challenges they face. While some community members take pride in their achievements, others feel marginalized, particularly those with mixed heritage. This internal divide raises critical questions about what it means to belong in a community that, while advocating for self-governance, still grapples with issues of identity and inclusion.
During my time in Akwesasne, I learned about the creation story that shapes the community’s worldview. It narrates the origins of humankind and the universe, emphasizing a matriarchal understanding of life that contrasts sharply with patriarchal narratives found in many Western religions. This story not only serves as a cultural anchor but also underscores the community’s deep connection to the land and its resources. The reverence for “Mother Earth” reflects a worldview that sees all creation as interconnected, a belief that stands in opposition to the exploitative practices often seen in modern capitalist societies.
However, as I listened to the elders recount these teachings, I was struck by the underlying tensions that persist. The community’s traditional beliefs are challenged by external pressures and internal divisions. The historic Indian Act and its discriminatory clauses have sown seeds of division, leading some members to feel alienated based on their heritage. The reality is that many youth within Akwesasne feel more aligned with the United States than Canada, complicating their relationship with both nations.
The conversations I had during the tour revealed an urgent need for healing—not just between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples but within Indigenous communities themselves. The generational trauma of residential schools and systemic injustices has left scars that continue to affect relationships among community members. The absence of meaningful engagement from federal authorities in reconciliation efforts only exacerbates this disconnect.
As I reflect on these experiences, it becomes evident that self-determination is not merely a political goal; it is deeply personal. It requires confronting painful histories while fostering a sense of belonging that transcends divisions. The elders of Akwesasne recognized this need, calling for self-determining activities that engage all community members, regardless of status.
The challenges of self-determination, particularly in a postcolonial context, are multifaceted. It demands a re-examination of power dynamics, not only between Indigenous and settler societies but also within Indigenous communities. As I rode along the St. Lawrence River, I couldn’t help but think of the parallels between Akwesasne and other Indigenous communities across Canada and beyond. The fight for sovereignty, identity, and recognition continues, shaped by both historical legacies and contemporary realities.
The journey through Akwesasne during the Nation to Nation Road Bike Tour illuminated the complexities of self-determination. It is a journey that requires both introspection and collective action. As we strive for a future where all voices are heard and respected, we must recognize that the path to reconciliation is not linear. It is filled with obstacles that demand courage, empathy, and a commitment to understanding the diverse narratives that shape our shared history. The road ahead may be long, but the vision of unity and self-determination remains a powerful beacon for all those who seek justice and equality in a world still marked by division.
About Akwesasne
Akwesasne Island, situated along the St. Lawrence River, straddles the Canadian-American border and is home to the Mohawk Nation. Known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community, Akwesasne faces unique challenges related to sovereignty, identity, and the impacts of colonialism, while fostering resilience and self-determination among its people.
